The 10 Best folding bikes

The popularity of folding bikes means there is now a huge range, whether you want one for commuting or rugged off-road riding

{1} Brompton H6L

Bromptons are pricy, but once  you’ve tried one, there’s no going back. The H-type handlebars on this one mean you can sit upright – perfect for those for whom elegance trumps speed. The mudguards and six gears mean  it’s suited to most terrains and  weather types.

£995, brompton.co.uk

{2} Raleigh Stowaway 3

Highly affordable and ideal for commuting or taking on holiday, this has plenty of great features, including gears that are simple and effective to use and an easy-to-use folding mechanism, as well as a decent luggage rack.

£300, raleigh.co.uk

{3} Dahon Jifo

Jifo’s claim to fame is that it only takes a matter of seconds to fold and unfold – ideal for those moments when you reach the station and can see the train pulling in. This 16in-wheel folding bike is also lightweight and compact, although you won’t want to travel more than a couple of miles on it.

£599.99, halfords.com

{4} Carrera Transport

Despite its relatively low price tag, especially in the costly world of folding bikes, the Carrera Transport strikes a great balance between being sturdily built and lightweight enough for a  fast and easy ride. The eight-speed  gearing system makes it suitable for  all terrain.

£299, halfords.com

{5} Tern Link P9

A brisk ride to work on the Tern Link  P9 is light, fast and fun. The components are particularly durable and the quality is outstanding for the price, with  smooth gear-shifting and highly  responsive brakes. 

£550, evanscycles.com

{6} Airnimal White Rhino

There’s no getting around it – if you want a folding bike for off-road, it will cost you. This one has 20in BMX wheels, a reinforced frame and serious suspension. You can fold it down within 45 seconds for daily use or within five minutes if you want it small enough for long-distance travel.

£1,899, airnimal.eu

{7} Dahon Vybe C7A

This Dahon folding bike delivers convenience and great riding comfort. Also impressive is the patented handle post that’s made from forged aluminium and which provides a super-strong connection to the frame and fork.

£380, raleigh.co.uk

{8} Montague Boston 8

Montague is the only folding bike manufacturer to make full-sized bikes. Although not as compact as most, nice touches of this stylish, lightweight bike include the quick-release mudguards and an upright urban riding position, which makes it both city- and suburb-friendly.

£949.99, discountbicyles.co.uk

{9} Beixo Compact Low

This seven-speed bike, which hails from the world’s flattest country, is aimed at the saddle-squeamish. Thanks to the extra low frame, there’s no need to haul yourself over a bike frame and there’s a custom-made travel bag worth £50 thrown in at the moment.

£780, anddutch.co.uk

{10} Tern Link C7

This is a fantastic pair of wheels for zipping down the high street. There’s everything you need despite the surprisingly low price, with a seven-speed Shimano gear set, a sturdy aluminium frame and a total weight of just 12.4kg (27lbs 5.4oz).

£299, evanscycles.com